Chilli Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe – Grilled & Baked Perfection

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Chilli Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe – Grilled & Baked Perfection

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a flavour-packed, relatively easy dinner that feels a little bit special. This Chilli Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is exactly that. I first made this a few years ago when I was craving something with a bit of a kick, and it’s been a family favourite ever since. The combination of the smoky grill, the tender chicken, and that glorious chilli garlic sauce… honestly, it’s hard to beat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s quick enough for a weeknight (around 45 minutes total!), but feels impressive enough for guests. The grilling and baking method gives you the best of both worlds – beautiful char marks and perfectly cooked, juicy chicken. Plus, the chilli garlic sauce is a flavour bomb that will leave you wanting more. Seriously, prepare to lick your fingers!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• 4 skinless & bone-in chicken thighs (about 600-700g)
• ½ cup chilli garlic sauce (adjust to your spice preference!)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about a few key ingredients. First, the chilli garlic sauce. I usually go for a brand like Vee’s or Mother’s Recipe, but feel free to experiment! You can even make your own (more on that in the FAQs!). The spice level varies between brands, so start with ½ cup and add more if you like things extra fiery.

Now, about those chicken thighs. Don’t even think about swapping these for breasts! Bone-in, skin-on thighs are where it’s at for flavour and moisture. The bone adds richness, and the skin gets beautifully crispy. Trust me on this one. You can find skinless, bone-in thighs easily at most supermarkets.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First things first, wash and pat those chicken thighs really dry with paper towels. This is key for getting a good sear.
2. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy!
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, and massage it in well. We want every bit of that chicken coated.
4. Now for the fun part: slather on the chilli garlic sauce! Make sure you get it into all the nooks and crannies.
5. Let the chicken marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavours to really penetrate the meat.
6. While the chicken is marinating, preheat your cast iron grill pan (or regular grill pan) until it’s smoking hot. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
7. Grill the chicken thighs for about 15 minutes per side over medium heat. You’re looking for those gorgeous char marks.
8. While the chicken is grilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (180°C).
9. Transfer the grilled thighs to the preheated oven and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until they’re fully cooked through.
10. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the thickest part of the thigh – the juices should run clear. Or, use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).
11. Serve immediately with a fresh salad.

Expert Tips

Want to take this recipe to the next level? Here are a few of my go-to tips:

• Grill Marks: Make sure your grill pan is screaming hot before adding the chicken. This is how you get those beautiful, dark grill marks.
• Don’t Overcook: Chicken thighs are more forgiving than breasts, but you still don’t want to dry them out. Use a thermometer to be sure!
• Marination is Key: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavourful it will be. But 30 minutes is a good starting point if you’re short on time.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Vegan: Swap the chicken thighs for firm tofu or seitan. Marinate and grill/bake as directed. My friend Priya swears by this version!
• Gluten-Free: Just double-check that your chilli garlic sauce is gluten-free. Many brands are, but it’s always good to check the label.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chilli garlic sauce to your liking. Or, add a pinch of red chilli flakes for an extra kick.
• Festival Adaptations: This is a fantastic quick meal for a busy weeknight, but it also works great as a party appetizer – just cut the chicken into smaller pieces.

Serving Suggestions

This Chilli Garlic Chicken goes beautifully with:

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Steamed rice or quinoa.
• Roasted vegetables like broccoli or sweet potatoes.
• A side of naan bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? What adjustments should I make to cooking time?

A: You can, but I really recommend sticking with thighs for the best flavour and texture. If you do use breasts, reduce the baking time to 15-20 minutes, and be extra careful not to overcook them.

Q: What is the best way to make chilli garlic sauce from scratch?

A: There are tons of recipes online! Basically, you’ll need red chillies, garlic, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Blend everything together until smooth, and adjust the ingredients to your taste.

Q: Can I grill this entirely on the grill, or is the oven step necessary?

A: The oven step helps ensure the chicken is cooked through, especially with thicker thighs. You could try grilling entirely, but keep a close eye on the internal temperature.

Q: How do I know if my chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature?

A: The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Q: Can I marinate the chicken for longer than 30 minutes? What’s the maximum time?

A: Yes! You can marinate it for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before grilling.

Q: What side dishes pair best with Chilli Garlic Chicken?

A: I love it with rice and a simple salad, but roasted vegetables or naan bread are also fantastic choices!

Enjoy! Let me know in the comments if you try this recipe and what you think. I can’t wait to hear from you!